SHT Guided Hike Offered, Sept 2010

trip leader, Mary Coffin

from Mary Coffin

Have you wanted to experience Lake Superior's North Shore, but weren't sure if you were up to backpacking? Experienced guide Mary Coffin, is leading a day hiking expedition on the NCT / Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota, Sept 8-15, 2010

This is a day hiking and camping trip on the 4600 mile North Country National Scenic Trail where it is concurrent with the Superior Hiking Trail. It is said that there are no uninteresting sections of trail here. If you are looking for the camaraderie of like-minded hikers to bag a few miles of the NCNST in northern Minnesota, this might be the trip for you.

Each day hikers will cover 6-10 miles, with day packs, using vans to shuttle between base camps and trail heads. We will set up tents in state parks with flush toilets and showers and cook and eat outdoors. Wilderness Inquiry, a not for profit outfitter, will take care of logistics.

There will be opportunities to observe fall color, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, scenic vistas contrasted by deep deciduous woods, Lake Superior views, lighthouses, wildlife, birds including eagles, waterfowl and moose. Hike in the footsteps of the voyageurs and old time loggers of Paul Bunyan fame! This is a sampling of experiences along the SHT, not a thru-hike.

The trip starts and ends in Duluth. The first and last day in Duluth will be at your own expense for lodging and dinner in the Duluth Best Western Edgewater Polynesian Plaza. They have lower rates on weekdays, AAA and over 50 AARP discounts, continental breakfast and airport shuttle. There are many inexpensive eateries in walking distance.

The trip cost will be $770 per participant which includes: Wilderness Inquiry guide for 6 days, 5 nights, ground transport during trip, all meals and snacks starting from lunch on day 2 through lunch on day 7, Eureka tents, cooking equipment, stoves, campground fees, and NCTA leader for days 1-7. Not Included: airfare, dinner and hotel on day 1 and day 7, alcohol, soda and personal items (including sleeping bag and pad), voluntary tip to the guides. Membership in NCTA is required (check northcountrytrail.org or 1-866-HIKENCT)

Coffin is an experienced trek leader and guide, having led trips around the world from Hawaii to India, to many camping trips in the United States.

Contact Mary Coffin, 315-687-3589, for more information